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PXIe-5654
Calibration Procedure
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Calibration Procedure
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National Instruments PXIe-5654, PXIe-5696 Calibration Procedure

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Page 1
CALIBRATION PROCEDURE
PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696
250 kHz to 20 GHz RF Analog Signal Generator with Amplitude Extender
This document contains the verification and adjustment procedures for the PXIe-5654 RF Analog Signal Generator when used with the PXIe-5696 Amplitude Extender.
Refer to ni.com/calibration for more information about calibration solutions.

Contents

Zeroing and Calibrating the Power Sensor....................................................................... 7
Characterizing the Power Splitter..................................................................................... 7
Verifying RF OUT Frequency Accuracy........................................................................ 10
Verifying RF OUT Phase Noise......................................................................................12
Verifying RF OUT Amplitude Accuracy........................................................................ 15
Verifying RF OUT Maximum Power..............................................................................22
Verifying PULSE IN Operation...................................................................................... 24
Measuring RF Attenuator Path Input Power...................................................................26
Adjusting RF Attenuator Path.........................................................................................28
Adjusting RF Attenuator Accuracy.................................................................................29
Measuring Amplifier Path Input Power.......................................................................... 31
Adjusting Amplitude Accuracy (Low Harmonic Paths).................................................32
Adjusting Amplitude Accuracy (High Power Paths)......................................................34
Adjusting ALC................................................................................................................35
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Required Software

Calibrating the PXIe-5654 requires you to install the following package on the calibration system:
• NI-RFSG 14.5 or later
You can download all required software from ni.com/downloads.
The software supports programming the verification procedures in the LabVIEW, C, and LabWindows™/CVI™ application development environments (ADE) and programming the adjustment procedures in LabVIEW. When you install the software, you need to install support only for the ADE that you intend to use.

Related Documentation

For additional information, refer to the following documents as you perform the calibration procedure:
• PXIe-5654 Getting Started Guide
• PXIe-5654 Calibration Procedure
• PXIe-5696 Getting Started Guide
• PXIe-5654 Specifications (includes specifications for the PXIe-5696)
• NI RF Signal Generators Help
Visit ni.com/manuals for the latest versions of these documents.

Test Equipment

The following table lists the equipment NI recommends for the performance verification and adjustment procedures. If the recommended equipment is not available, select a substitute using the minimum requirements listed in the following table.
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Table 1. Recommended Equipment for PXIe-5654 Calibration
Equipment Recommended
Model
Where Used Minimum
Requirements
Signal source analyzer
Frequency reference
Rhode & Schwarz (R&S) FSUP26 Signal Source Analyzer
Symmetricom 8040C Rubidium Frequency Standard
Verifications:
• RF OUT frequency accuracy
• RF OUT phase noise
• RF OUT amplitude accuracy
• RF OUT maximum power
• PULSE IN operation
Adjustments:
• Frequency reference accuracy
Verifications:
• RF OUT amplitude accuracy
• RF OUT maximum power
• PULSE IN operation
Adjustments:
• Frequency reference accuracy
Frequency range:
0.25 MHz to 20 GHz
Frequency counter resolution: 0.1 Hz
Phase noise measurement using cross-correlation
Frequency counter marker feature
Spectrum analysis capabilities
Frequency: 10 MHz
Frequency accuracy:
-9
±1 × 10
PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 3
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Table 1. Recommended Equipment for PXIe-5654 Calibration (Continued)
Equipment Recommended
Model
Where Used Minimum
Requirements
Power meter Anritsu ML2438A
with a SC7413A Power Sensor
K(m)-to-K(m) cable, 36 in. (x2)
Florida RF Labs KMS-160-36.0­KMS
Verifications:
• RF OUT maximum power
• RF OUT amplitude accuracy
Adjustments:
• RF OUT power
• RF attenuator accuracy
• Amplitude accuracy (low harmonic paths)
• Amplitude accuracy (high power paths)
• Automatic Level Control (ALC)
Verifications:
• RF OUT frequency accuracy
• RF OUT phase noise
• RF OUT amplitude accuracy
Adjustments:
• Frequency reference accuracy
Range: -40 dBm to 20 dBm
Frequency range: 250 kHz to 20 GHz
Accuracy: <±4.0%
Length: 36 in.
Loss: <0.7 dB/ft. (typical) at 20 GHz
Impedance: 50 Ω
K(m)-to-K(m) cable, 12 in. (x2)
Florida RF Labs KMS-160-12.0­KMS
Verifications:
• RF OUT amplitude accuracy
• RF OUT maximum power
Adjustments:
• RF attenuator path
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Length: 12 in.
Loss: <0.5 dB/ft. (typical) at 20 GHz
Impedance: 50 Ω
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Table 1. Recommended Equipment for PXIe-5654 Calibration (Continued)
Equipment Recommended
Model
Where Used Minimum
Requirements
K(m)-to-K(f)
Anritsu 41KB-20 Adjustments: 20 dB attenuator
K(m)-to-K(f)
Anritsu 41KB-6 Test system 6 dB attenuator (x2)
Power splitter Aeroflex/Weinschel
1593
• RF attenuator path
characterization
Verifications:
• RF OUT amplitude accuracy
• RF OUT maximum power
Test system characterization
Verifications:
• RF OUT amplitude accuracy
• RF OUT maximum power
Frequency range: DC to 20 GHz
Voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR): <1.18
Accuracy: <±0.5 dB
Impedance: 50 Ω
Frequency range: DC to 20 GHz
VSWR: <1.18
Accuracy: <±0.5 dB
Impedance: 50 Ω
Frequency range: DC to 20 GHz
VSWR: <1.35
Insertion loss: <8.5 dB
Impedance: 50 Ω
K(m)-to-K(f)
1
adapter
Anritsu K224B Test system
characterization
Frequency range: DC to 20 GHz
VSWR: ≤1.12
Impedance: 50 Ω
The following table lists the equipment NI recommends for optional performance verification procedures for non-warranted specifications. If the recommended equipment is not available, select a substitute using the minimum requirements listed in the table.
1
The connector on the power sensor listed above may be difficult to access with a torque wrench when there is adjacent connected hardware. Use this adapter if you need to extend the capabilities of the power sensor to make it accessible by a torque wrench.
PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 5
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Table 2. Recommended Equipment for Optional PXIe-5654 Calibration
Equipment Recommended Model Where Used Minimum
Requirements
USB digital output USB-6501 Digital I/O
Device
BNC(m)-to-SMB(f) cable
BNC(m)-to-screw terminal block adapter
BNC(m)-to­BNC(m) cable
BNC Tee adapter (f-f-f)
Radiall R284C0351028
Clever Little Box CLB-JL73
Pasternack PE3087 Verifications:
Pasternack PE9003 Verifications:
Verifications:
• PULSE IN operation
Verifications:
• PULSE IN operation
Verifications:
• PULSE IN operation
• PULSE IN operation
• PULSE IN operation
Active drive capability
Voltage: <3.3 V CMOS
Impedance: 50 Ω
Impedance: 50 Ω
Impedance: 50 Ω
Impedance: 50 Ω

Test Conditions

The following setup and environmental conditions are required to ensure the PXIe-5654 and PXIe-5696 meet published specifications.
• Keep cabling as short as possible. Long cables act as antennas, picking up extra noise that can affect measurements.
• Verify that all connections to the PXIe-5654 and PXIe-5696, including front panel connections and screws, are secure.
• Maintain an ambient temperature of 23 °C ± 5 °C.
• Keep relative humidity between 10% and 90%, noncondensing.
• Allow a warm-up time of at least 30 minutes after the chassis is powered on. The warm­up time ensures that the PXIe-5654 and PXIe-5696 are at a stable operating temperature.
• In each verification procedure, insert a delay between configuring all instruments and acquiring the measurement. This delay may need to be adjusted depending on the instruments used but should always be at least 1,000 ms for the first iteration, 1,000 ms when the power level changes, and 100 ms for each other iteration.
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• Plug the chassis and the calibration instrument(s) into the same power strip to avoid ground loops.
• Use an appropriate torque wrench to tighten all module RF connectors (SMA, 3.5 mm, or K). NI recommends a 0.565 N · m (5 lb · in) wrench for SMA connectors and a
0.90 N · m (8 lb · in) wrench for 3.5 mm or K connectors.
• Connect the frequency reference source to the signal source analyzer REF IN back panel connector using a BNC(m)-to-BNC(m) cable, and connect the signal source analyzer REF OUT connector to the PXIe-5654 REF IN connector using a BNC(m)-to-SMA(m) cable.
• Ensure that the PXI chassis fan speed is set to HIGH, that the fan filters, if present, are clean, and that the empty slots contain filler panels. For more information about cooling, refer to the Maintain Forced-Air Cooling Note to Users document available at ni.com/
manuals.
• Frequencies less than and equal to 10 GHz apply to the 10 GHz and 20 GHz PXIe-5654; frequencies above 10 GHz apply only to the 20 GHz PXIe-5654.
• The PXIe-5654 must be verified as a stand-alone device using the PXIe-5654 Calibration Procedure before performing the procedures in this document.

Initial Setup

Refer to the PXIe-5654 Getting Started Guide and PXIe-5696 Getting Started Guide for information about how to install the software and the hardware and how to configure the devices in MAX.

Test System Characterization

The following procedures characterize the test equipment used during verification.
Note Before starting characterization, unassociate the PXIe-5654 and PXIe-5696
in Measurement & Automation Explorer (MAX) by setting the PXIe-5696 connected to the PXIe-5654 to None.

Zeroing and Calibrating the Power Sensor

1. Connect channel A of the power meter to the power sensor.
2. Zero and calibrate the power sensor using the built-in functions in the power meter.

Characterizing the Power Splitter

Several procedures in this document require using a splitter that has been characterized to remove error from future measurements. Complete the following steps to characterize a splitter using a PXIe-5654, power meter, and signal source analyzer, as shown in the following figure.
1. Connect the frequency reference source to the signal source analyzer REF IN back panel connector using a BNC(m)-to-BNC(m) cable, and connect the signal source analyzer
PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 7
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REF OUT connector to the PXIe-5654 REF IN connector using a BNC(m)-to-SMA(m) cable.
2. Connect the power meter power sensor to the PXIe-5654 RF OUT front panel connector.
3. Create a new device session for the PXIe-5654.
4. Create a list of test frequencies using the values in the following table.
Table 3. Power Splitter Characterization Test Frequencies
Start Frequency (MHz) Stop Frequency (MHz) Frequency Step (MHz)
0.25 — —
25 250 112.5
275 1,000 145
1,250 20,000 250
5. Configure the PXIe-5654 using the following settings:
• Frequency: Frequency from the list in step 4.
• Power Level: -10 dBm
6. Commit the settings to hardware if this is the first iteration of running this procedure; otherwise skip to step 9.
7. Initiate signal generation.
8. Enable the RF output.
9. Check the signal generation status and verify that there are no reported errors or warnings.
10. Use the power meter to measure the output power. Store this value as the Power Meter Reading.
11. Repeat steps 5 through 10 for each remaining test frequency in the list created in step 4.
12. Disconnect the power meter from the PXIe-5654 RF OUT front panel connector.
13. Connect the PXIe-5654 RF OUT front panel connector to the 6 dB attenuator.
14. Connect the open end of the attenuator to the input of the power splitter using a K(m)-to­K(m) 12 in. cable.
15. Connect an available output port of the power splitter to the power sensor.
16. Connect a 6 dB attenuator to the signal source analyzer RF input.
17. Connect the other available output port of the power splitter to the attenuator connected to the signal source analyzer RF input connector using a K(m)-to-K(m) 36 in. cable.
The hardware setup is shown in the following image, with the dotted line surrounding the equipment fixture.
Note After assembling the hardware and performing characterization, do not
disassemble or alter the torque applied to the connectors of the fixture. If any hardware within the fixture is altered, you must characterize again.
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Figure 1. Power Splitter Characterization Equipment Setup
250 kHz–20 GHz Signal Generator
ACCESS ACTIVE
REF IN
1–20 MHz
±10 dBm NOM
17 dBm MAX
PULSE IN
–0.5V MIN +5.5V MAX
FM IN
±1 VDC NOM ±2 VDC MAX
AM IN
±1 VDC NOM ±2 VDC MAX
ALC IN
±15 VDC MAX
RF OUT
250 kHz – 20 GHz
REF OUT
10 MHz
5 dBm ±2 dBm NOM
REF OUT 2
100 MHz
5 dBm ±2 dBm NOM
TRIG IN/OUT
3.3V CMOS IN/OUT –0.5V MIN IN
5.5V MAX IN
ESD SENSITIVE
ALL PORTS
50 Ω
2 3
8
5
2
4
7
6
1
1. PXIe-5654 RF Analog Signal Generator
2. K(m)-to-K(f) 6 dB Attenuator
3. K(m)-to-K(m) Cable, 12 in.
4. Power Sensor
5. Power Meter
6. Power Splitter
7. K(m)-to-K(m) Cable, 36 in.
8. Signal Source Analyzer
18. Configure the reference level of the spectrum analyzer to -30 dBm.
The spectrum analyzer is used only for termination.
19. Configure the PXIe-5654 using the following settings:
• Frequency: Frequency from the list in step 4.
• Power Level: -10 dBm
20. Check the signal generation status and verify that there are no reported errors or warnings.
21. Use the power meter to measure the output power. Store this value as Splitter.
22. Calculate the splitter loss using the following formula:
Splitter Loss = Power Meter Reading - Splitter
23. Store the calculated values.
24. Repeat steps 19 through 23 for each remaining test frequency in the list created in step 4.
25. Close the device session.

As-Found and As-Left Limits

The as-found limits are the published specifications for the PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696. NI uses these limits to determine whether the PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696 meets the
PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 9
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specifications when it is received for calibration. Use the as-found limits during initial verification.
The as-left calibration limits are equal to the published NI specifications for the PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696, less guard bands for measurement uncertainty, temperature drift, and drift over time. NI uses these limits to reduce the probability that the instrument will be outside the published specification limits at the end of the calibration cycle. Use the as-left limits when performing verification after adjustment.

Verification

The performance verification procedures assume that adequate traceable uncertainties are available for the calibration references.
Before starting verification, complete the following steps.
1. Complete the verification procedures for the PXIe-5654 as a stand-alone device.
2. Associate the PXIe-5654 and PXIe-5696 in MAX.
3. Make the following reference connections. a) Connect the frequency reference source to the signal source analyzer REF IN back
panel connector using a BNC(m)-to-BNC(m) cable.
b) Connect the signal source analyzer REF OUT connector to the PXIe-5654 REF IN
connector using a BNC(m)-to-SMA(m) cable.
Related Information
For instructions on verifying the PXIe-5654 as a stand-alone device, refer to the PXIe-5654 Calibration Procedure.

Verifying RF OUT Frequency Accuracy

This procedure verifies that the internal signal generation circuitry is adjusted for correct frequency accuracy.
1. Connect the PXIe-5654 to the PXIe-5696.
2. Connect the PXIe-5696 RF OUT front panel connector to the signal source analyzer RF input connector using the K(m)-to-K(m) cable, as shown in the following figure.
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Figure 2. RF OUT Frequency Accuracy Verification Equipment Setup (Reference
250 kHz–20 GHz Signal Generator
ACCESS ACTIVE
REF IN
1–20 MHz
±10 dBm NOM
17 dBm MAX
PULSE IN
–0.5V MIN +5.5V MAX
FM IN
±1 VDC NOM ±2 VDC MAX
AM IN
±1 VDC NOM ±2 VDC MAX
ALC IN
±15 VDC MAX
RF OUT
250 kHz – 20 GHz
REF OUT
10 MHz
5 dBm ±2 dBm NOM
REF OUT 2
100 MHz
5 dBm ±2 dBm NOM
TRIG IN/OUT
3.3V CMOS IN/OUT –0.5V MIN IN
5.5V MAX IN
ESD SENSITIVE
ALL PORTS
50 Ω
250 kHz–20 GHz Amplitude Extender
ACCESS ACTIVE
RF AMP
OUT
ATTN IN
+30 dBm MAX
ALC OUT
±15 VDC MAX
RF OUT
Reverse Power ±30 dBm MAX
RF IN
±15 dBm MAX
ESD SENSITIVE
ALL PORTS
50 Ω
T
T
3
4
1 2
Connections Not Shown)
1. PXIe-5654 RF Analog Signal Generator
2. PXIe-5696 Amplitude Extender
3. Signal Source Analyzer
4. K(m)-to-K(m) Cable
3. Create a new device session for the PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696.
4. Create a list of test frequencies, including endpoints, containing 100 MHz and 1 GHz, according to the frequency range of your PXIe-5654 model, with 1 GHz increments.
5. Configure the PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696 using the following settings:
• Frequency: Frequency from the list in step 4
6. Commit the settings to hardware if this is the first iteration of running this procedure;
7. Initiate signal generation.
8. Enable the RF output.
9. Check the signal generation status and verify that there are no reported errors or
• Power Level: 0 dBm
• Reference Clock Source: Onboard Clock
otherwise skip to step 9.
warnings.
PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 11
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10. Configure the signal source analyzer using the following settings:
• Center frequency: Frequency from the list in step 4
• Reference level: 20 dBm
• Frequency span: 1 MHz
• Reference Clock source: External
• Frequency counter resolution: 0.1 Hz
• Sweep: Manual
• Number of sweeps: 1
• Auto Sweep Time
11. Measure the frequency of the peak that is returned by the signal source analyzer at approximately the corresponding point in the frequency list you created in step 4.
12. Calculate the deviation using the following formula:
Δf =
f
Measured
MHz − f
f
Expected
Expected
MHz
MHz
ppm
13. Ensure that the deviation found in the previous step is less than the result of the following equations:
As Left Calculation: Initial Accuracy + Temperature Stability
As Found Calculation: Initial Accuracy + Aging + Temperature Stability
where
Initial Accuracy = ±0.1 ppm Temperature Stability (15 °C to 35 °C) = ±0.2 ppm
Ten Year Aging = 1.25 ppm
14. Repeat steps 5 through 13 for the remaining frequencies in the list created in step 4.
15. Close the device session.

Verifying RF OUT Phase Noise

This procedure verifies that the internal frequency generation circuitry is adjusted for correct phase noise accuracy.
1. Connect the PXIe-5654 to the PXIe-5696.
2. Connect the PXIe-5696 RF OUT front panel connector to the signal source analyzer RF input connector using the K(m)-to-K(m) cable.
The hardware setup is shown in the following figure.
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Figure 3. RF OUT Phase Noise Verification Equipment Setup (Reference Connections
250 kHz–20 GHz Signal Generator
ACCESS ACTIVE
REF IN
1–20 MHz
±10 dBm NOM
17 dBm MAX
PULSE IN
–0.5V MIN +5.5V MAX
FM IN
±1 VDC NOM ±2 VDC MAX
AM IN
±1 VDC NOM ±2 VDC MAX
ALC IN
±15 VDC MAX
RF OUT
250 kHz – 20 GHz
REF OUT
10 MHz
5 dBm ±2 dBm NOM
REF OUT 2
100 MHz
5 dBm ±2 dBm NOM
TRIG IN/OUT
3.3V CMOS IN/OUT –0.5V MIN IN
5.5V MAX IN
ESD SENSITIVE
ALL PORTS
50 Ω
250 kHz–20 GHz Amplitude Extender
ACCESS ACTIVE
RF AMP
OUT
ATTN IN
+30 dBm MAX
ALC OUT
±15 VDC MAX
RF OUT
Reverse Power ±30 dBm MAX
RF IN
±15 dBm MAX
ESD SENSITIVE
ALL PORTS
50 Ω
T
T
3
4
1 2
Not Shown)
1. PXIe-5654 RF Analog Signal Generator
2. PXIe-5696 Amplitude Extender
3. Signal Source Analyzer
4. K(m)-to-K(m) Cable
3. Create a new device session for the PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696.
4. Configure the signal source analyzer using the following settings:
• Phase noise measurement using cross-correlation phase-locked loops (PLLs) and internal generators
• Automatic device under test (DUT) detection
5. Use the signal source analyzer to perform a manual frequency sweep at the settings listed
• Spur suppression enabled
• Fast Fourier transform (FFT) mode with Blackman-Harris window
• Measurement span from 100 Hz to 1 MHz (offset frequencies)
in the following table.
PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 13
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Table 4. RF OUT Manual Sweep Settings
Carrier Frequency Offset Resolution Bandwidth Cross Correlation
100 Hz to 300 Hz 10 Hz 100
300 Hz to 1 kHz 30 Hz 1,000
1 kHz to 3 kHz 100 Hz 10,000
3 kHz to 10 kHz 300 Hz 10,000
10 kHz to 30 kHz 1 kHz 10,000
30 kHz to 100 kHz 1 kHz 5,000
100 kHz to 300 kHz 3 kHz 1,000
300 kHz to 1 MHz 10 kHz 1,000
6. Configure the PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696 using the following settings:
• Frequency: 500 MHz
• Power Level: +8 dBm
7. Commit the settings to hardware if this is the first iteration of running the procedure; otherwise skip to step 10.
8. Initiate signal generation.
9. Enable the RF output.
10. Set the signal source analyzer center frequency to 500 MHz if the signal source analyzer does not automatically center for phase noise measurements.
11. Check the signal generation status and verify that there are no reported errors or warnings.
12. Measure the phase noise using the signal source analyzer for every offset value in the following table. Record the measurements.
13. Ensure that the recorded measurements are within the limits set in the following tables.
Table 5. RF OUT Phase Noise (dBc/Hz), As-Found Limits
Offset Carrier Frequency
500 MHz 1 GHz 5 GHz 10 GHz 20 GHz
100 Hz ≤-107 ≤-101 ≤-87 ≤-81 ≤-75
1 kHz ≤-126 ≤-121 ≤-109 ≤-103 ≤-97
10 kHz ≤-135 ≤-130 ≤-120 ≤-114 ≤-108
100 kHz ≤-137 ≤-131 ≤-122 ≤-117 ≤-111
1 MHz ≤-138 ≤-132 ≤-125 ≤-119 ≤-113
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Table 6. RF OUT Phase Noise (dBc/Hz), As-Left Limits
Offset Carrier Frequency
500 MHz 1 GHz 5 GHz 10 GHz 20 GHz
100 Hz ≤-108.5 ≤-102.5 ≤-88.5 ≤-82.5 ≤-76.5
1 kHz ≤-127.5 ≤-122.5 ≤-110.5 ≤-104.5 ≤-98.5
10 kHz ≤-135.5 ≤-130.5 ≤-120.5 ≤-114.5 ≤-108.5
100 kHz ≤-138 ≤-132 ≤-123 ≤-118 ≤-112
1 MHz ≤-138.5 ≤-132.5 ≤-125.5 ≤-119.5 ≤-113.5
14. Repeat steps 6 through 13 for 1 GHz, 5 GHz, 10 GHz, and 20 GHz carrier frequencies.
15. Close the device session.

Verifying RF OUT Amplitude Accuracy

This procedure verifies that the PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696 is adjusted for correct amplitude accuracy.
1. Connect the PXIe-5654 to the PXIe-5696.
2. Using the fixture that was previously characterized in Characterizing the Power Splitter, connect the input of the fixture to the PXIe-5696 RF OUT front panel connector.
3. Connect the outputs of the fixture to the power sensor and to the signal source analyzer RF input connector, as shown in the following image.
All other connections should not have changed since characterization.
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Figure 4. RF OUT Amplitude Accuracy Verification Equipment Setup
250 kHz–20 GHz Signal Generator
ACCESS ACTIVE
REF IN
1–20 MHz
±10 dBm NOM
17 dBm MAX
PULSE IN
–0.5V MIN +5.5V MAX
FM IN
±1 VDC NOM ±2 VDC MAX
AM IN
±1 VDC NOM ±2 VDC MAX
ALC IN
±15 VDC MAX
RF OUT
250 kHz – 20 GHz
REF OUT
10 MHz
5 dBm ±2 dBm NOM
REF OUT 2
100 MHz
5 dBm ±2 dBm NOM
TRIG IN/OUT
3.3V CMOS IN/OUT –0.5V MIN IN
5.5V MAX IN
ESD SENSITIVE
ALL PORTS
50 Ω
250 kHz–20 GHz Amplitude Extender
ACCESS ACTIVE
RF AMP
OUT
ATTN IN
+30 dBm MAX
ALC OUT
±15 VDC MAX
RF OUT
Reverse Power ±30 dBm MAX
RF IN
±15 dBm MAX
ESD SENSITIVE
ALL PORTS
50 Ω
T
T
4
9
6
3
5
8
7
2
1
3
1. PXIe-5654 RF Analog Signal Generator
2. PXIe-5696 Amplitude Extender
3. K(m)-to-K(f) 6 dB Attenuator
4. K(m)-to-K(m) Cable, 12 in.
6. Power Meter
7. Power Splitter
8. K(m)-to-K(m) Cable, 36 in.
9. Signal Source Analyzer
5. Power Sensor
4. Create a new device session for the PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696.
5. Create a list of test frequencies from the following table based on your current power level under test.
Table 7. RF OUT Amplitude Accuracy Test Settings
Power Level
(dBm)
-80 0.25 — —
Start Frequency
(MHz)
Stop Frequency
(MHz)
Frequency Step
(MHz)
25 250 112.5
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275 1,000 145
1,250 3,000 250
3,250 6,000 250
6,250 15,000 250
15,250 20,000 250
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Table 7. RF OUT Amplitude Accuracy Test Settings (Continued)
Power Level
(dBm)
Start Frequency
(MHz)
Stop Frequency
(MHz)
-40 0.25 — —
25 250 112.5
275 1,000 145
1,250 3,000 250
3,250 6,000 250
6,250 15,000 250
15,250 20,000 250
-20 0.25 — —
25 250 112.5
275 1,000 145
1,250 3,000 250
3,250 6,000 250
6,250 15,000 250
15,250 20,000 250
-10 0.25 — —
Frequency Step
(MHz)
25 250 112.5
275 1,000 145
1,250 3,000 250
3,250 6,000 250
6,250 15,000 250
15,250 20,000 250
PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 17
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Table 7. RF OUT Amplitude Accuracy Test Settings (Continued)
Power Level
(dBm)
Start Frequency
(MHz)
Stop Frequency
(MHz)
-7 0.25 — —
25 250 112.5
275 1,000 145
1,250 3,000 250
3,250 6,000 250
6,250 15,000 250
15,250 20,000 250
0 0.25 — —
25 250 112.5
275 1,000 145
1,250 3,000 250
3,250 6,000 250
6,250 15,000 250
15,250 20,000 250
10 0.25 — —
Frequency Step
(MHz)
25 250 112.5
18 15,250 20,000 250
20 275 1,000 145
6,250 15,000 250
23 3,250 6,000 250
24 1,250 3,000 250
6. Configure the reference level of the spectrum analyzer to -30 dBm.
The spectrum analyzer is used only for termination.
7. Configure the PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696 using the following settings:
• Frequency: Frequency from the list in step 5
• Power Level: Current power level from the preceding table, which is the Expected
Power (dBm)
8. Commit the settings to hardware if this is the first iteration of running the procedure; otherwise skip to step 11.
9. Initiate signal generation.
18 | ni.com | PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696 Calibration Procedure
Page 19
10. Enable the RF output.
11. Check the signal generation status and verify that there are no reported errors or warnings.
12. Measure the power using the power meter. Correct the power meter reading for the RF frequency.
This measurement is the Power Meter Reading.
13. Correct the power meter reading with the characterization value from Characterizing the
Power Splitter.
Measured Power (dBm) = Power Meter Reading + Splitter Loss
14. Calculate the Power Deviation (dB) using the following formula:
Power Deviation (dB) = Measured Power (dBm) - Expected Power (dBm)
15. Verify that the Power Deviation (dB) results in the previous step are within the limits listed in the following tables.
Table 8. Amplitude Accuracy, As-Found Limits (dB)
Frequency Maximum
Leveled
Power (dBm)
-80 dBm to <-40 dBm
Power Deviation (dB)
-40 dBm to <-10 dBm
-10 dBm to 13 dBm
>13 dBm to
Maximum
Leveled
Power (dBm)
0.25 MHz to <20 MHz
20 MHz to ≤250 MHz
>250 MHz to ≤1,000 MHz
>1,000 MHz to ≤3,000 MHz
>3,000 MHz to ≤6,000 MHz
>6,000 MHz to ≤8,000 MHz
>8,000 MHz to ≤15,000 MHz
>15,000 MHz to ≤20,000 MHz
≥10 ±1.75 ±1.20 ±0.80 —
≥10 ±1.50 ±1.20 ±0.80 —
≥20 ±1.50 ±1.20 ±0.80 ±1.20
≥24 ±1.50 ±1.20 ±0.80 ±1.20
>23 ±1.50 ±1.20 ±0.80 ±1.20
>20 ±1.50 ±1.20 ±0.80 ±1.20
>20 ±1.50 ±1.20 ±0.80 ±1.30
>18 ±1.50 ±1.20 ±0.80 ±1.30
PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 19
Page 20
Table 9. Amplitude Accuracy, As-Left Limits (dB)
Frequency Maximum
Leveled
Power (dBm)
-80 dBm to < -40 dBm
Power Deviation (dB)
-40 dBm to <-10 dBm
-10 dBm to 13 dBm
>13 dBm to
Maximum
Leveled
Power (dBm)
0.25 MHz to
≥10 ±1.00 ±0.60 ±0.35 —
≤20 MHz
>20 MHz to
≥10 ±0.70 ±0.60 ±0.35 —
≤250 MHz
>250 MHz to
≥20 ±0.70 ±0.60 ±0.35 ±0.60
≤1,000 MHz
>1,000 MHz to
≥24 ±0.70 ±0.60 ±0.35 ±0.60
≤3,000 MHz
>3,000 MHz to
>23 ±0.60 ±0.60 ±0.35 ±0.60
≤6,000 MHz
>6,000 MHz to
>20 ±0.60 ±0.60 ±0.35 ±0.60
≤8,000 MHz
>8,000 MHz to
>20 ±0.60 ±0.60 ±0.35 ±0.60
≤15,000 MHz
>15,000 MHz to
>18 ±0.60 ±0.60 ±0.35 ±0.60
≤20,000 MHz
16. Repeat steps 7 through 15 for each test frequency in the frequency list created in step 5.
17. Repeat steps 7 through 15 for all output powers greater than -20 dBm in the frequency list.
The following steps apply to using an output power of -20 dBm.
18. Create a list of test frequencies from Table 7 that apply to a power level of -20 dBm.
19. Configure the PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696 using the following settings:
• Frequency: Frequency from the list in step 18
• Power Level: -20 dBm, which is the Expected Power (dBm)
20. Commit the settings to hardware if this is the first iteration of running this procedure; otherwise skip to step 21.
21. Check the signal generation status and verify that there are no reported errors or warnings.
22. Configure the signal source analyzer with the following settings:
• Center frequency: Frequency in step 18
• RF Input coupling: DC
• Reference level: -30 dBm
• Frequency span: 0 Hz
20 | ni.com | PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696 Calibration Procedure
Page 21
• Resolution bandwidth: 100 Hz
• Sweep time: 20 ms
• Reference Clock source: External
• RF attenuation: 5 dB
• Preamplifier: On
23. Measure the power using the power meter. Correct the power meter reading for the RF frequency.
This measurement is the Power Meter Reading.
24. Correct the power meter reading with the characterization value from Characterizing the
Power Splitter.
Measured Power (dBm) = Power Meter Reading + Splitter Loss
25. Measure the power level with the signal source analyzer. Record the value as the Signal Source Analyzer Reading.
26. Calculate and store the characterization of the signal source analyzer.
Correction = Measured Power - Signal Source Analyzer Reading
27. Verify that the Power Deviation (dB) results in the preceding step are within the limits listed in Tables 8 and 9.
28. Repeat steps 19 through 27 for each test frequency in the frequency list created in step 18.
The following steps apply to using an output power of <-20 dBm.
29. Create a list of test frequencies from Table 7 that apply to a power level of -40 dBm
30. Configure the PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696 using the following settings:
• Frequency: Frequency from the list in step 29
• Power Level: -40 dBm, which is the Expected Power (dBm)
31. Commit the settings to hardware if this is the first iteration of running this procedure; otherwise skip to step 32.
32. Check the signal generation status and verify that there are no reported errors or warnings.
33. Configure the signal source analyzer with the following settings:
• Center frequency: Frequency in step 29
• RF Input coupling: DC
• Reference level: -30 dBm
• Frequency span: 0 Hz
• Resolution bandwidth: 100 Hz
• Sweep time: 20 ms
• Reference Clock source: External
• RF attenuation: 5 dB
• Preamplifier: On
34. Measure the power level with the signal source analyzer. Record the value as the Signal Source Analyzer Reading.
35. Correct the reading with previously stored characteristic values.
Power Deviation (dB) = Signal Source Analyzer Reading + Corrections stored in step 26
PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 21
Page 22
36. Verify that the Power Deviation (dB) results in the preceding step are within the limits listed in Tables 8 and 9.
37. Repeat steps 30 through 36 for each test frequency in the frequency list created in step 29.
The following steps apply to using an output power of <-40 dBm.
38. Create a list of test frequencies from Table 7 that apply to a power level of -80 dBm
39. Configure the PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696 using the following settings:
• Frequency: Frequency from the list in step 38
• Power Level: -80 dBm, which is the Expected Power (dBm)
40. Commit the settings to hardware if this is the first iteration of running this procedure; otherwise skip to step 41.
41. Check the signal generation status and verify that there are no reported errors or warnings.
42. Configure the signal source analyzer with the following settings:
• Center frequency: Frequency in step 38
• RF Input coupling: DC
• Reference level: -30 dBm
• Frequency span: 0 Hz
• Resolution bandwidth: 500 Hz
• Sweep time: 200 ms
• Reference Clock source: External
• RF attenuation: 5 dB
• Preamplifier: On
43. Measure the power level with the signal source analyzer. Record the value as the Signal Source Analyzer Reading.
44. Correct the reading with previously stored characteristic values.
Power Deviation (dB) = Signal Source Analyzer Reading + Corrections stored in step 26
45. Verify that the Power Deviation (dB) results in the preceding step are within the limits listed in Tables 8 and 9.
46. Repeat steps 39 through 45 for each test frequency in the frequency list created in step 38.
47. Stop signal generation.
48. Close the device session.

Verifying RF OUT Maximum Power

This procedure verifies that the PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696 produces the correct maximum output power.
1. Connect the PXIe-5654 to the PXIe-5696.
2. Using the fixture that was previously characterized in Characterizing the Power Splitter, connect the input of the fixture to the PXIe-5696 RF OUT front panel connector.
3. Connect the outputs of the fixture to the power sensor and to the signal source analyzer RF input connector, as shown in the following image.
All other connections should not have changed since characterization.
22 | ni.com | PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696 Calibration Procedure
Page 23
Figure 5. RF OUT Maximum Power Verification Equipment Setup
250 kHz–20 GHz Signal Generator
ACCESS ACTIVE
REF IN
1–20 MHz
±10 dBm NOM
17 dBm MAX
PULSE IN
–0.5V MIN +5.5V MAX
FM IN
±1 VDC NOM ±2 VDC MAX
AM IN
±1 VDC NOM ±2 VDC MAX
ALC IN
±15 VDC MAX
RF OUT
250 kHz – 20 GHz
REF OUT
10 MHz
5 dBm ±2 dBm NOM
REF OUT 2
100 MHz
5 dBm ±2 dBm NOM
TRIG IN/OUT
3.3V CMOS IN/OUT –0.5V MIN IN
5.5V MAX IN
ESD SENSITIVE
ALL PORTS
50 Ω
250 kHz–20 GHz Amplitude Extender
ACCESS ACTIVE
RF AMP
OUT
ATTN IN
+30 dBm MAX
ALC OUT
±15 VDC MAX
RF OUT
Reverse Power ±30 dBm MAX
RF IN
±15 dBm MAX
ESD SENSITIVE
ALL PORTS
50 Ω
T
T
4
9
6
3
5
8
7
2
1
3
1. PXIe-5654 RF Analog Signal Generator
2. PXIe-5696 Amplitude Extender
3. K(m)-to-K(f) 6 dB Attenuator
4. K(m)-to-K(m) Cable, 12 in.
6. Power Meter
7. Power Splitter
8. K(m)-to-K(m) Cable, 36 in.
9. Signal Source Analyzer
5. Power Sensor
4. Configure the reference level of the spectrum analyzer to -30 dBm.
The spectrum analyzer is used only for termination.
5. Create a new device session for the PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696.
6. Create a list of test frequencies using the values in the following table.
Table 10. RF OUT Maximum and Minimum Power Test Frequencies
Power Level
(dBm)
Start Frequency
(MHz)
Stop Frequency
(MHz)
12 0.25 — —
12 25 250 112.5
22 275 1,000 145
26 1,250 3,000 250
25 3,250 6,000 250
22 6,250 15,000 250
20 15,250 20,000 250
PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 23
Frequency Step
(MHz)
Page 24
7. Configure the PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696 using the following settings:
• Frequency: Start frequency from the list in step 6
• Power Level: Power level from the list in step 6
8. Initiate signal generation if this is the first iteration of running the procedure; otherwise skip to step 11.
9. Enable the RF output.
10. Measure the PXIe-5696 RF OUT front panel connector power using the power meter and the fixture created in Characterizing the Power Splitter. Correct the power meter reading for the RF frequency and previously characterized power splitter loss.
11. Verify that the power output measured in step 10 meets the limits in the following table.
Table 11. Maximum Power Limits
Frequency (MHz) As-Found Limit (dBm) As-Left Limit (dBm)
0.25 to ≤250 ≥10 ≥11
>250 to ≤1,000 ≥20 ≥21
>1,000 to ≤3,000 ≥24 ≥25
>3,000 to ≤6,000 >23 >24
>6,000 to ≤15,000 >20 >21
>15,000 to ≤20,000 >18 >19
12. Repeat steps 7 through 11 for each frequency from the list created in step 6.
13. Close the device session.

Optional Verification

Use the following procedures to verify nonwarranted specifications for the PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696.

Verifying PULSE IN Operation

This procedure verifies that the PXIe-5654 PULSE IN connection is functioning.
1. Connect the PXIe-5654 to the PXIe-5696.
2. Connect the signal source analyzer RF input to the PXIe-5696 RF OUT front panel connector using the K(m)-to-K(m) cable.
3. Connect the Port 0, Line 0 (P0.0) output of the USB digital output device to two separate connectors using a BNC Tee connector and a BNC(m)-to-terminal block adapter.
a) Connect the P0.0 output of the USB digital output device to the signal source
analyzer EXT TRIG/GATE IN back panel connector using a BNC(m)-to-BNC(m) cable. (Not pictured.)
b) Connect the P0.0 output of the USB digital output device to the PXIe-5654 front
panel PULSE IN connector using BNC(m)-to-SMB(f) cable.
24 | ni.com | PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696 Calibration Procedure
Page 25
The hardware setup is shown in the following figure.
250 kHz–20 GHz Signal Generator
ACCESS ACTIVE
REF IN
1–20 MHz
±10 dBm NOM
17 dBm MAX
PULSE IN
–0.5V MIN +5.5V MAX
FM IN
±1 VDC NOM ±2 VDC MAX
AM IN
±1 VDC NOM ±2 VDC MAX
ALC IN
±15 VDC MAX
RF OUT
250 kHz – 20 GHz
REF OUT
10 MHz
5 dBm ±2 dBm NOM
REF OUT 2
100 MHz
5 dBm ±2 dBm NOM
TRIG IN/OUT
3.3V CMOS IN/OUT –0.5V MIN IN
5.5V MAX IN
ESD SENSITIVE
ALL PORTS
50 Ω
250 kHz–20 GHz Amplitude Extender
ACCESS ACTIVE
RF AMP
OUT
ATTN IN
+30 dBm MAX
ALC OUT
±15 VDC MAX
RF OUT
Reverse Power ±30 dBm MAX
RF IN
±15 dBm MAX
ESD SENSITIVE
ALL PORTS
50 Ω
T
T
4
6
5
3
2
1
NI USB-6501
24-line Digital I/O
Figure 6. PULSE IN Operation Verification Equipment Setup
1. USB-6501 Digital I/O Device
2. BNC(m)-to-SMB(f) Cable
3. PXIe-5654 RF Analog Signal Generator
4. PXIe-5696 Amplitude Extender
5. K(m)-to-K(m) Cable
6. Signal Source Analyzer
4. Create a new device session for the PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696.
5. Configure the signal source analyzer using the following settings:
• Reference level: 5 dBm
• Start frequency: 0.25 MHz
• Stop frequency: 10,000 MHz
• Span (kHz): 2 KHz
• Resolution bandwidth: 30 Hz
• Video bandwidth: 100 Hz
• RF attenuation: 30 dB
6. Configure the PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696 using the following settings:
• Pulse Modulation Enabled: TRUE
• Frequency: 5 GHz
• Power Level: 10 dBm
PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 25
Page 26
7. Commit the settings to hardware.
8. Initiate signal generation.
9. Enable the RF output.
10. Create a USB digital output channel for the Port 0, Line 0 of the USB digital output device.
11. Configure the channel to be Active Drive.
12. Enable the output on the channel created in step 10.
13. Start the USB digital output task for the channel.
14. Sweep the signal source analyzer and read the marker. This value is the OnPower.
15. Stop the USB digital output task.
16. Clear the USB digital output task.
17. Repeat steps 10 and 11, disabling the output of the USB digital output channel.
18. Sweep the signal source analyzer and read the marker. This value is the OffPower.
19. Verify that the following equation is true.
OnPower - OffPower ≥ 80 dB
20. Close the device sessions.

Adjustment

This section describes the steps needed to adjust the PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696 to meet published specifications. The PXIe-5696 is adjusted while connected to the PXIe-5654.
Note Adjusting the PXIe-5696 requires a calibrated 20 GHz PXIe-5654. If you
performed verification using a 10 GHz PXIe-5654, power off the system and replace the 10 GHz PXIe-5654 with a 20 GHz PXIe-5654 prior to starting adjustment.
Note Before starting this adjustment on the PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696,
unassociate the PXIe-5654 and PXIe-5696 in MAX, then complete the adjustment procedures for the PXIe-5654 as a stand-alone device.
Related Information
For instructions on adjusting the PXIe-5654 as a stand-alone device, refer to the PXIe-5654 Calibration Procedure.

Measuring RF Attenuator Path Input Power

This procedure measures the input power used for PXIe-5696 attenuator path adjustments. Using the measured input power yields a more accurate adjustment for the PXIe-5696 attenuator paths.
1. Connect the PXIe-5654 RF OUT front panel connector to the power meter through the 20 dB attenuator as shown in the following figure.
26 | ni.com | PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696 Calibration Procedure
Page 27
Figure 7. PXIe-5696 RF Attenuator Path Input Power Measurement Equipment Setup
3
250 kHz–20 GHz Signal Generator
ACCESS ACTIVE
REF IN
1–20 MHz
±10 dBm NOM
17 dBm MAX
PULSE IN
–0.5V MIN +5.5V MAX
FM IN
±1 VDC NOM ±2 VDC MAX
AM IN
±1 VDC NOM ±2 VDC MAX
ALC IN
±15 VDC MAX
RF OUT
250 kHz – 20 GHz
REF OUT
10 MHz
5 dBm ±2 dBm NOM
REF OUT 2
100 MHz
5 dBm ±2 dBm NOM
TRIG IN/OUT
3.3V CMOS IN/OUT –0.5V MIN IN
5.5V MAX IN
ESD SENSITIVE
ALL PORTS
50 Ω
250 kHz–20 GHz Amplitude Extender
ACCESS ACTIVE
RF AMP
OUT
ATTN IN
+30 dBm MAX
ALC OUT
±15 VDC MAX
RF OUT
Reverse Power ±30 dBm MAX
RF IN
±15 dBm MAX
ESD SENSITIVE
ALL PORTS
50 Ω
21
456
1. PXIe-5654 RF Analog Signal Generator
2. PXIe-5696 Amplitude Extender
3. Power Meter
2. Initialize the power meter.
4. Power Sensor
5. SMA(f)-to-SMA(f) Adapter
6. 20 dB Attenuator
3. Initialize a new external calibration session for the PXIe-5696.
4. Call the niRFSG Initialize External Calibration VI using the appropriate password.
Note The default password for password-protected operations is NI.
5. Call the niRFSG 5696 Attenuator Path Cal Initialize VI with the following inputs:
• NI 5654 resource name
• measurement port: Input Power
• input power file: Specify a fully qualified path to the Atten_Zero_Loss.bin file
6. Call the niRFSG 5696 Attenuator Path Cal Configure VI.
7. Measure the PXIe-5654 output power through the 20 dB attenuator with the power meter. Ensure that the power meter is settled within 0.1% before taking a measurement.
8. Correct the power meter reading for the RF frequency using the frequency to measure output of the niRFSG 5696 Attenuator Path Cal Configure VI.
Note The VI creates this file. Specify a path to a writeable location for
the file.
PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 27
Page 28
9. Use the corrected reading from step 8 as the value of the measured power input of the
250 kHz–20 GHz Signal Generator
ACCESS ACTIVE
REF IN
1–20 MHz
±10 dBm NOM
17 dBm MAX
PULSE IN
–0.5V MIN +5.5V MAX
FM IN
±1 VDC NOM ±2 VDC MAX
AM IN
±1 VDC NOM ±2 VDC MAX
ALC IN
±15 VDC MAX
RF OUT
250 kHz – 20 GHz
REF OUT
10 MHz
5 dBm ±2 dBm NOM
REF OUT 2
100 MHz
5 dBm ±2 dBm NOM
TRIG IN/OUT
3.3V CMOS IN/OUT –0.5V MIN IN
5.5V MAX IN
ESD SENSITIVE
ALL PORTS
50 Ω
250 kHz–20 GHz Amplitude Extender
ACCESS ACTIVE
RF AMP
OUT
ATTN IN
+30 dBm MAX
ALC OUT
±15 VDC MAX
RF OUT
Reverse Power ±30 dBm MAX
RF IN
±15 dBm MAX
ESD SENSITIVE
ALL PORTS
50 Ω
21
3
5
4
niRFSG 5696 Attenuator Path Cal Adjust VI.
10. Repeat steps 6 through 9 until the attenuator calibration complete output of the niRFSG 5696 Attenuator Path Cal Adjust VI returns a value of TRUE.
11. Call the niRFSG Close External Calibration VI to close the session. Set the write calibration to hardware? parameter to TRUE.

Adjusting RF Attenuator Path

This procedure characterizes the RF attenuator path in the PXIe-5696 and updates the values stored in the PXIe-5696 EE PROM. This adjustment yields a more accurate output power for the PXIe-5696 RF OUT.
1. Connect the PXIe-5654 RF OUT to the PXIe-5696 ATTN IN front panel connector through the 20 dB attenuator.
2. Connect the PXIe-5696 ATTN OUT front panel connector to the power meter as shown in the following figure.
Figure 8. PXIe-5696 RF Attenuator Path Adjustment Equipment Setup
1. PXIe-5654 RF Analog Signal Generator
2. PXIe-5696 Amplitude Extender
3. Power Meter
3. Initialize a new external calibration session for the PXIe-5696.
28 | ni.com | PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696 Calibration Procedure
4. Power Sensor
5. 20 dB Attenuator
Page 29
4. Call the niRFSG Initialize External Calibration VI using the appropriate password.
Note The default password for password-protected operations is NI.
5. Call the niRFSG 5696 Attenuator Path Cal Initialize VI with the following inputs:
• NI 5654 resource name
• measurement port: Output Power
6. Select the file created during Measuring RF Attenuator Path Input Power on page 26 as the input power file of the niRFSG Attenuator Path Cal Initialize VI.
7. Call the niRFSG 5696 Attenuator Path Cal Configure VI.
8. Measure the PXIe-5696 output power with the power meter. Correct the measurement using the frequency to measure output of the niRFSG 5696 Attenuator Path Cal Configure VI. Ensure that the power meter is settled within 0.1% before taking a measurement.
9. Use the corrected measurement from step 8 as the value of the measured power input of the niRFSG 5696 Attenuator Path Cal Adjust VI.
10. Repeat steps 7 through 9 until the attenuator calibration complete output of the niRFSG 5696 Attenuator Path Cal Adjust VI returns a value of TRUE.
11. Call the niRFSG Close External Calibration VI to close the session. Set the write calibration to hardware? parameter to TRUE to store the results to the EEPROM on the PXIe-5696.

Adjusting RF Attenuator Accuracy

This procedure characterizes the RF attenuator in the PXIe-5696 and updates the values stored in the PXIe-5696 EEPROM. This adjustment yields a more accurate output power for the PXIe-5696 RF OUT.
1. Connect the power sensor directly to the PXIe-5696 RF OUT front panel connector as shown in the following figure.
PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 29
Page 30
Figure 9. PXIe-5696 RF Attenuator Accuracy Adjustment Equipment Setup
250 kHz–20 GHz Signal Generator
ACCESS ACTIVE
REF IN
1–20 MHz
±10 dBm NOM
17 dBm MAX
PULSE IN
–0.5V MIN +5.5V MAX
FM IN
±1 VDC NOM ±2 VDC MAX
AM IN
±1 VDC NOM ±2 VDC MAX
ALC IN
±15 VDC MAX
RF OUT
250 kHz – 20 GHz
REF OUT
10 MHz
5 dBm ±2 dBm NOM
REF OUT 2
100 MHz
5 dBm ±2 dBm NOM
TRIG IN/OUT
3.3V CMOS IN/OUT –0.5V MIN IN
5.5V MAX IN
ESD SENSITIVE
ALL PORTS
50 Ω
250 kHz–20 GHz Amplitude Extender
ACCESS ACTIVE
RF AMP
OUT
ATTN IN
+30 dBm MAX
ALC OUT
±15 VDC MAX
RF OUT
Reverse Power ±30 dBm MAX
RF IN
±15 dBm MAX
ESD SENSITIVE
ALL PORTS
50 Ω
T
T
3
21
44
1. PXIe-5654 RF Analog Signal Generator
2. PXIe-5696 Amplitude Extender
3. Power Meter
4. Power Sensor
2. Initialize a new external calibration session for the PXIe-5696.
3. Call the niRFSG Initialize External Calibration VI using the appropriate password.
Note The default password for password-protected operations is NI.
4. Call the niRFSG 5696 Attenuator Cal Initialize VI with the NI 5654 resource name as input.
5. Call the niRFSG 5696 Attenuator Cal Configure VI.
6. Measure the PXIe-5696 output power with the power meter. Correct the measurement
7. Use the reading from step 6 as the value of the measured power input of the to niRFSG
8. Repeat steps 6 and 7 until the attenuator calibration complete output of the niRFSG
9. Call the niRFSG Close External Calibration VI to close the session. Set the write
30 | ni.com | PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696 Calibration Procedure
using the frequency to measure output of the niRFSG 5696 Attenuator Cal Configure VI. Ensure that the power meter is settled within 0.1% before taking a reading.
5696 Attenuator Cal Adjust VI.
5696 Attenuator Cal Adjust VI returns a value of TRUE.
calibration to hardware? parameter to TRUE to store the results to the EEPROM on the PXIe-5696.
Page 31

Measuring Amplifier Path Input Power

250 kHz–20 GHz Signal Generator
ACCESS ACTIVE
REF IN
1–20 MHz
±10 dBm NOM
17 dBm MAX
PULSE IN
–0.5V MIN +5.5V MAX
FM IN
±1 VDC NOM ±2 VDC MAX
AM IN
±1 VDC NOM ±2 VDC MAX
ALC IN
±15 VDC MAX
RF OUT
250 kHz – 20 GHz
REF OUT
10 MHz
5 dBm ±2 dBm NOM
REF OUT 2
100 MHz
5 dBm ±2 dBm NOM
TRIG IN/OUT
3.3V CMOS IN/OUT –0.5V MIN IN
5.5V MAX IN
ESD SENSITIVE
ALL PORTS
50 Ω
2
1
43
1. Connect the PXIe-5654 RF OUT front panel connector directly to the power meter as shown in the following figure.
Figure 10. PXIe-5696 Amplifier Path Input Power Measurement Equipment Setup
1. PXIe-5654 RF Analog Signal Generator
2. Power Meter
3. Power Sensor
2. Initialize the power meter.
3. Initialize a new external calibration session for the PXIe-5696.
4. Call the niRFSG Initialize External Calibration VI using the appropriate password.
Note The default password for password-protected operations is NI.
5. Call the niRFSG 5696 Amplifier Cal Initialize VI with the following inputs:
• NI 5654 resource name
• path to calibrate: High Power
PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 31
Page 32
• measurement port: Input Power
• input power file: Specify a fully qualified path to the
High_Power_Path_Input_Power.bin file
Note The VI creates this file. Specify a path to a writeable location for
the file.
6. Call the niRFSG 5696 Amplifier Cal Configure VI.
7. Measure the PXIe-5654 output power with the power meter. Ensure that the power meter is settled within 0.1% before taking a measurement.
8. Correct the measurement from step 7 using the frequency to measure output of the niRFSG 5696 Amplifier Cal Configure VI.
9. Use the corrected reading from step 8 as the value of the measured power input of the niRFSG 5696 Amplifier Cal Adjust VI.
10. Repeat steps 6 through 9 until the amp calibration complete output of the niRFSG 5696 Amplifier Cal Adjust VI returns a value of TRUE.
11. Call the niRFSG Close External Calibration VI to close the session. Set the write calibration to hardware? parameter to TRUE.
12. Repeat steps 5 through 10 with the following inputs:
• path to calibrate: Low Harmonic
• measurement port: Input Power
• input power file: Specify a fully qualified path to the
Low_Harmonic_Path_Input_Power.bin file
Note The VI creates this file. Specify a path to a writeable location for
the file.
13. Call the niRFSG Close External Calibration VI to close the session. Set the write calibration to hardware? parameter to TRUE.

Adjusting Amplitude Accuracy (Low Harmonic Paths)

This procedure characterizes the low harmonic paths in the PXIe-5696 and updates the values stored in the PXIe-5696 EEPROM. This adjustment yields a more accurate output power for the PXIe-5696 RF OUT.
1. Connect the power sensor directly to the PXIe-5696 RF OUT front panel connector as shown in the following figure.
32 | ni.com | PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696 Calibration Procedure
Page 33
Figure 11. PXIe-5696 Amplitude Accuracy (Low Harmonic Paths) Adjustment
250 kHz–20 GHz Signal Generator
ACCESS ACTIVE
REF IN
1–20 MHz
±10 dBm NOM
17 dBm MAX
PULSE IN
–0.5V MIN +5.5V MAX
FM IN
±1 VDC NOM ±2 VDC MAX
AM IN
±1 VDC NOM ±2 VDC MAX
ALC IN
±15 VDC MAX
RF OUT
250 kHz – 20 GHz
REF OUT
10 MHz
5 dBm ±2 dBm NOM
REF OUT 2
100 MHz
5 dBm ±2 dBm NOM
TRIG IN/OUT
3.3V CMOS IN/OUT –0.5V MIN IN
5.5V MAX IN
ESD SENSITIVE
ALL PORTS
50 Ω
250 kHz–20 GHz Amplitude Extender
ACCESS ACTIVE
RF AMP
OUT
ATTN IN
+30 dBm MAX
ALC OUT
±15 VDC MAX
RF OUT
Reverse Power ±30 dBm MAX
RF IN
±15 dBm MAX
ESD SENSITIVE
ALL PORTS
50 Ω
T
T
3
21
44
Equipment Setup
1. PXIe-5654 RF Analog Signal Generator
2. PXIe-5696 Amplitude Extender
3. Power Meter
4. Power Sensor
2. Initialize a new external calibration session for the PXIe-5696.
3. Call the niRFSG Initialize External Calibration VI using the appropriate password.
Note The default password for password-protected operations is NI.
4. Call the niRFSG 5696 Amplifier Cal Initialize VI with the following inputs:
• path to calibrate: Low Harmonic
• measurement port: Output Power
5. Select the file created during Measuring Amplifier Path Input Power on page 31 for the Low Harmonic path as the input power file of the niRFSG Amplifier Cal Initialize VI.
6. Call the niRFSG 5696 Amplifier Cal Configure VI.
7. Measure the PXIe-5696 output power with the power meter. Correct the measurement using the frequency to measure output of the niRFSG 5696 Amplifier Cal Configure VI. Ensure that the power meter is settled within 0.1% before taking a reading.
8. Use the reading from step 7 as the value of the measured power input of the niRFSG 5696 Amplifier Cal Adjust VI.
PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 33
Page 34
9. Repeat steps 7 and 8 until the amp calibration complete output from the niRFSG 5696
250 kHz–20 GHz Signal Generator
ACCESS ACTIVE
REF IN
1–20 MHz
±10 dBm NOM
17 dBm MAX
PULSE IN
–0.5V MIN +5.5V MAX
FM IN
±1 VDC NOM ±2 VDC MAX
AM IN
±1 VDC NOM ±2 VDC MAX
ALC IN
±15 VDC MAX
RF OUT
250 kHz – 20 GHz
REF OUT
10 MHz
5 dBm ±2 dBm NOM
REF OUT 2
100 MHz
5 dBm ±2 dBm NOM
TRIG IN/OUT
3.3V CMOS IN/OUT –0.5V MIN IN
5.5V MAX IN
ESD SENSITIVE
ALL PORTS
50 Ω
250 kHz–20 GHz Amplitude Extender
ACCESS ACTIVE
RF AMP
OUT
ATTN IN
+30 dBm MAX
ALC OUT
±15 VDC MAX
RF OUT
Reverse Power ±30 dBm MAX
RF IN
±15 dBm MAX
ESD SENSITIVE
ALL PORTS
50 Ω
T
T
3
21
44
Amplifier Cal Adjust VI returns a value of TRUE.
10. Call the niRFSG Close External Calibration VI to close the session. Set the write calibration to hardware? parameter to TRUE to store the results to the EEPROM on the PXIe-5696.
Related Information
Measuring Amplifier Path Input Power on page 31

Adjusting Amplitude Accuracy (High Power Paths)

This procedure characterizes the high power paths in the PXIe-5696 and updates the values stored in the PXIe-5696 EEPROM. This adjustment yields a more accurate output power for the PXIe-5696 RF OUT.
1. Connect the power sensor directly to the PXIe-5696 RF OUT front panel connector as shown in the following figure.
Figure 12. PXIe-5696 Amplitude Accuracy (High Power Paths) Adjustment Equipment
Setup
1. PXIe-5654 RF Analog Signal Generator
2. PXIe-5696 Amplitude Extender
34 | ni.com | PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696 Calibration Procedure
3. Power Meter
4. Power Sensor
Page 35
2. Initialize a new external calibration session for the PXIe-5696.
3. Call the niRFSG Initialize External Calibration VI using the appropriate password.
Note The default password for password-protected operations is NI.
4. Call the niRFSG 5696 Amplifier Cal Initialize VI with the following input parameters:
• path to calibrate: High Power
• measurement port: Output Power
5. Select the file created during Measuring Amplifier Path Input Power on page 31 for the High Power path as the input power file of the niRFSG Amplifier Cal Initialize VI.
6. Call the niRFSG 5696 Amplifier Cal Configure VI.
7. Measure the PXIe-5696 output power with the power meter. Correct the measurement using the frequency to measure output of the niRFSG 5696 Amplifier Cal Configure VI. Ensure that the power meter is settled within 0.1% before taking a reading.
8. Use the reading from step 7 as the value of the measured power input of the niRFSG 5696 Amplifier Cal Adjust VI.
9. Repeat steps 7 and 8 until the amp calibration complete output from the niRFSG 5696 Amplifier Cal Adjust VI returns a value of TRUE.
10. Call the niRFSG Close External Calibration VI to close the session. Set the write calibration to hardware? parameter to TRUE to store the results to the EEPROM on the PXIe-5696.
Related Information
Measuring Amplifier Path Input Power on page 31

Adjusting ALC

This procedure characterizes the ALC path in the PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696 and updates the values stored in the PXIe-5696 EEPROM. This adjustment yields a more accurate output power for the PXIe-5696 RF OUT.
1. Connect the power sensor directly to the PXIe-5696 RF OUT front panel connector as shown in the following figure.
PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 35
Page 36
Figure 13. PXIe-5696 ALC Adjustment Equipment Setup
250 kHz–20 GHz Signal Generator
ACCESS ACTIVE
REF IN
1–20 MHz
±10 dBm NOM
17 dBm MAX
PULSE IN
–0.5V MIN +5.5V MAX
FM IN
±1 VDC NOM ±2 VDC MAX
AM IN
±1 VDC NOM ±2 VDC MAX
ALC IN
±15 VDC MAX
RF OUT
250 kHz – 20 GHz
REF OUT
10 MHz
5 dBm ±2 dBm NOM
REF OUT 2
100 MHz
5 dBm ±2 dBm NOM
TRIG IN/OUT
3.3V CMOS IN/OUT –0.5V MIN IN
5.5V MAX IN
ESD SENSITIVE
ALL PORTS
50 Ω
250 kHz–20 GHz Amplitude Extender
ACCESS ACTIVE
RF AMP
OUT
ATTN IN
+30 dBm MAX
ALC OUT
±15 VDC MAX
RF OUT
Reverse Power ±30 dBm MAX
RF IN
±15 dBm MAX
ESD SENSITIVE
ALL PORTS
50 Ω
T
T
3
21
44
1. PXIe-5654 RF Analog Signal Generator
2. PXIe-5696 Amplitude Extender
3. Power Meter
4. Power Sensor
2. Initialize a new external calibration session for the PXIe-5696.
3. Call the niRFSG Initialize External Calibration VI using the appropriate password.
Note The default password for password-protected operations is NI.
4. Call the niRFSG 5696 ALC Cal Initialize VI.
5. Call the niRFSG 5696 ALC Cal Configure VI
6. Measure the PXIe-5696 output power with the power meter. Correct the measurement using the frequency to measure output of the niRFSG 5696 ALC Cal Configure VI. Ensure that the power meter is settled within 0.1% before taking a reading.
7. Use the reading from step 6 as the measured power input of the niRFSG 5696 ALC Cal Adjust VI.
8. Repeat steps 6 and 7 until ALC calibration complete output of the niRFSG 5696 ALC Cal Adjust VI returns a value of TRUE.
9. Call the niRFSG Close External Calibration VI to close the session. Set the write calibration to hardware? parameter to TRUE to store the results to the EEPROM on the PXIe-5696.
36 | ni.com | PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696 Calibration Procedure
Page 37

Reverification

Repeat the Verification section to determine the as-left status of the PXIe-5654 or the PXIe-5696.
Note If any test fails reverification after performing an adjustment, verify that you
have met the test conditions before returning your PXIe-5654 or PXIe-5696 to NI. Refer to the Worldwide Support and Services section for information about support resources or service requests.

Updating Calibration Date and Time

This procedure updates the date and time of the last calibration of the PXIe-5696.
1. Call the niRFSG Initialize External Calibration VI.
2. Call the niRFSG Update External Calibration Date and Time VI.
3. Call the niRFSG Close External Calibration VI to close the session. Set the write calibration to hardware? parameter to TRUE to store the results to the EEPROM on the PXIe-5696.

Worldwide Support and Services

The NI website is your complete resource for technical support. At ni.com/support, you have access to everything from troubleshooting and application development self-help resources to email and phone assistance from NI Application Engineers.
Visit ni.com/services for information about the services NI offers.
Visit ni.com/register to register your NI product. Product registration facilitates technical support and ensures that you receive important information updates from NI.
NI corporate headquarters is located at 11500 North Mopac Expressway, Austin, Texas, 78759-3504. NI also has offices located around the world. For support in the United States, create your service request at ni.com/support or dial 1 866 ASK MYNI (275 6964). For support outside the United States, visit the Worldwide Offices section of ni.com/niglobal to access the branch office websites, which provide up-to-date contact information.
PXIe-5654 with PXIe-5696 Calibration Procedure | © National Instruments | 37
Page 38
Information is subject to change without notice. Refer to the NI Trademarks and Logo Guidelines at ni.com/trademarks for information on NI trademarks. Other product and company names mentioned herein are trademarks or trade names of their respective companies. For patents covering NI products/technology, refer to the appropriate location: Help»Patents in your software, the patents.txt file on your media, or the National Instruments Patent Notice at ni.com/patents. You can find information about end-user license agreements (EULAs) and third-party legal notices in the readme file for your NI product. Refer to the Export Compliance Information at ni.com/legal/export-compliance for the NI global trade compliance policy and how to obtain relevant HTS codes, ECCNs, and other import/export data. NI MAKES NO EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES AS TO THE ACCURACY OF THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN AND SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY ERRORS. U.S. Government Customers: The data contained in this manual was developed at private expense and is subject to the applicable limited rights and restricted data rights as set forth in FAR 52.227-14, DFAR 252.227-7014, and DFAR 252.227-7015.
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376183B-01 March 11, 2019
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